FoodieWhippedSA - South African Deliciousness

Smoky Masala Onion Bharta Pasta Bake

Before we get into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the humble brown onion, an ingredient that has quietly travelled through centuries, carried stories, traditions, and healing wisdom from one generation to the next. Long before it became the flavour foundation of our favourite curries, stews, sauces, and comfort meals, the onion was already treasured by ancient civilisations. From the kitchens of Egypt, Greece, and Rome to traditional remedies around the world, onions were valued not only for their ability to transform simple dishes into something extraordinary but also for their natural health benefits. The ancient Egyptians…

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August 7, 2026

Mains

SPICY CREAMY SPINACH PASTA

Creamy Spinach Pasta is a luxurious, comforting dish that beautifully bridges classic French-Italian "Florentine" history with modern comfort food. The concept traces back to the 16th century when Italian noblewoman Catherine de' Medici popularised pairing spinach with rich cream sauces in the French royal courts. While traditional Italian cooks preferred a lighter toss of spinach, garlic, and Parmigiano-Reggiano, the ultra-decadent version we love today was inspired by 20th-century American steakhouses, where rich, garlic-infused creamed spinach became a legendary side dish. Eventually, clever home cooks realised that this velvety steakhouse favourite made the perfect instant pasta sauce. Today, it is…

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May 21, 2026

Dessert

Persian Love Cake

Exploring the Origins of the Persian Love Cake The Persian Love Cake is a dessert shrouded in rich legends and romantic tales, each with its own unique charm. One popular theory traces its roots to a Portuguese dessert known as "Bolo di Amor," or Portuguese Love Cake. According to this story, the cake recipe was brought to Sri Lanka during the 16th century. Over time, it evolved into a semolina-based cake, commonly enjoyed during the Christmas season in Sri Lankan households. Another tale speaks of a young Persian woman who fell deeply in love with a prince. To win his…

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October 21, 2024

Savory & Snacks

Crumbed Mushrooms

What Are Mushrooms? Often mistaken for a vegetable, mushrooms are a type of fungus that releases spores instead of seeds. They grow above ground or on organic materials and are native to North America and Europe. Known for their delicate flavour and meaty texture, mushrooms are also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious and flavourful addition to many dishes. I've created a delicious crumbed mushroom recipe that can be enjoyed as either a main dish or a flavorful side to complement any meal. It's crispy, tasty, and packed with goodness! Ingredients: 1 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1…

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September 12, 2024

Food / Mains

Spicy Chicken Pasta

In the early 18th century, the English East India Trading Company ventured into India in search of affordable spices. By 1820, its influence expanded, and by 1858, the British government had taken official control of India. This colonial rule, though marked by exploitation, also influenced culinary exchanges between India and the West. Queen Victoria, a trendsetter in the Western world, helped popularise curry powder, a blend of spices brought back by soldiers from India. Though "curry" and curry powder became staples in Western cuisine, they are Western inventions. In India, a similar blend called garam masala is used, but it…

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September 11, 2024

Food / Mains

Creamy Macaroni Delight with a Spicy Twist

Macaroni and cheese has a rich history dating back to 14th-century Italy and medieval England. While it's often baked in the oven, it can also be made on the stovetop or with a mix. The secret to a creamy mac? Blending cheese into a Béchamel sauce to create a velvety Mornay sauce. No wonder it's a comfort food favorite for most people in the world! Ingredients: 1 packet of macaroni 1 onion, sliced (as much or as little as you like) 2-3 jam tomatoes, puréed 2-3 small potatoes, cubed Crushed chilli, ginger, and garlic paste Turmeric powder Your favourite cheese…

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August 28, 2024

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